What areas of a building are covered in a standard inspection?

A building inspection is a crucial step in understanding the condition of a property. Whether you’re buying, selling, or maintaining a building, knowing what areas are typically examined can help you prepare for the inspection process. Let’s explore the main areas that inspectors usually check during a standard building inspection.

Exterior of the building

• Roof – They check the condition of the roof, looking for damaged or missing shingles, signs of leaks, and the state of gutters and downspouts. The inspector might use binoculars or climb onto the roof if it’s safe to do so.
• Walls – The exterior walls are examined for cracks, damage to siding or bricks, and signs of water damage or pest infestation. The inspector also checks for proper painting or sealing to protect against the elements.
• Windows and Doors – These are checked for proper operation, signs of water damage, and the condition of frames and seals. Properly functioning windows and doors are important for energy efficiency and security.

Interior structure

• Floors – The inspector checks for unevenness, squeaks, or signs of water damage. They also examine the condition of different flooring materials.
• Staircases – These are checked to ensure they are secure and meet safety standards. Handrails and balusters are also inspected.
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Plumbing system

• Pipes – The inspector checks visible pipes for leaks, proper insulation, and signs of corrosion. They also look at the type and condition of the pipes.
• Water Heater – This is examined for proper operation, age, and any signs of damage or leaks. The inspector also checks if it’s the right size for the building’s needs.
• Drainage – The inspector ensures water drains properly in sinks, tubs, and showers. They might use special tools to check for blockages in pipes.

Kitchen

• Cabinets and Countertops – These are examined for proper installation and any signs of water damage or wear. The inspector checks if they’re securely attached.
• Sink and Faucet – The inspector checks for proper function and any signs of leaks. They also examine the plumbing under the sink.
• Ventilation – Range hoods and exhaust fans are checked to ensure they’re working correctly and venting properly.

Bathrooms

• Toilets – These are checked for proper flushing and any signs of leaks. The inspector also checks how securely they’re mounted.
• Sinks and Tubs – The inspector examines these for proper drainage and any signs of water damage. They also check the caulking and seals around these fixtures.
• Shower – This is checked for proper function and any signs of leaks or water damage. The inspector looks at the condition of tiles, grout, and shower doors.

Safety features

• Throughout the inspection, the inspector will also look at various safety features –
• Smoke Detectors – These are checked to ensure they’re present in the right locations and working properly.
• Carbon Monoxide Detectors – The inspector ensures these are installed where required and are functioning correctly.
• Fire Extinguishers – If present, these are checked to see if they’re up to date and properly located.
• Handrails – These are inspected to ensure they’re secure and meet safety standards.

Conclusion

A standard building inspection covers a wide range of areas, from the roof to the foundation and everything in between. It provides a comprehensive overview of a building’s condition, helping you make informed decisions about property purchases or maintenance. while inspectors are thorough, they can only inspect what’s visible and accessible. If you have concerns about specific areas or systems, you might need to arrange for specialized inspections. Always communicate with your inspector about what is and isn’t included in their standard inspection to ensure you get the information you need.